Abstract:

DISTRIBUTION:
Most common and best-known oak species in South Africa. Cultivated in colder, moister climatic areas – problematic in eastern and south western Cape and highveld of Kwazulu- Natal and Mpumalanga.
Botanical description: General: Large trees. Exotic, cultivated in gardens, on farms, etc. Leaves: Deciduous. Alternate, simple, deeply lobed leaves. Slightly hairy and bright green when young. Later in the season they become smoother and darker. Fruit: Typical conical acorn and cup.

TOXIC PRINCIPLE:
Hydolyzable gallotannins are converted in the rumen to gallic acid, pyrogallol and resorcinol. Green acorns are more toxic.